Centre directs states to link water, sanitation schemes with rural jobs guarantee

The Ministry of Jal Shakti and Ministry of Rural Development have jointly directed states and Union territories to converge resources and align implementation of water and sanitation programmes with the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin), or VB-G RAM G scheme. The directive, issued earlier this month, emphasises integrated planning, monitoring and delivery of related works across multiple government initiatives.

Water security has been identified as a core thematic focus area under the VB-G RAM G Act, 2025, the central government said. The directive requires states to incorporate drinking water source sustainability projects under Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 alongside greywater management interventions and sanitation works under Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) 2.0 into the rural employment guarantee framework.

The move aims to create employment opportunities in villages while simultaneously strengthening water infrastructure and sanitation services. By pooling resources across schemes, the government expects to improve operational efficiency and ensure that water security and sanitation investments generate local livelihood opportunities. The convergence model seeks to address multiple developmental challenges—water access, sanitation and rural employment—through coordinated implementation.

State authorities have been asked to develop integrated work plans that link the various water, sanitation and employment schemes. The joint directive underscores the government's push to align its flagship rural development programmes for greater impact in achieving water security and improved living standards in villages.